Protective case for an auto-injector

ABSTRACT

The application describes a protective case for an auto-injector. The medicament contained within these auto-injectors can be susceptible to degradation due to exposure to extreme temperatures and light. Thus, one embodiment of the protective case reduces the rate of heat transfer between the internal storage compartment of the case and the external atmosphere by including particularly configured vacuum chambers. Additionally, as auto-injectors become smaller, portability can be desirable. Thus, another embodiment of the protective case includes low-profile cases that allow the user to keep the auto-injector with them, e.g., by attaching the case to a common everyday item.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application No. 62/574,405, titled “Protective Case for anAuto-Injector,” which was filed on Oct. 19, 2017, and U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application No. 62/568,567, titled “Protective Case for anAuto-Injector,” which was filed on Oct. 5, 2017, the disclosures of bothof which are herein incorporated by reference in their entireties.

TECHNICAL FIELD

In general, various embodiments of this invention relate to protectivecases for drug or biological delivery devices and, specifically, toprotective cases forming a vacuum sealed chamber that provides thermalisolation for the enclosed device.

BACKGROUND

The auto-injector market is growing rapidly through an increase inprescriptions, along with new indications for use. Patients are activelyseeking solutions to address the anxiety associated with the existingpain points of using protective cases, including poor portability,unwanted attention, and temperature susceptibility.

Existing protective cases address some of the patient's anxieties, butfall short on others and often leave the patients seeking outalternatives. Accordingly, an improved protective case is needed.

SUMMARY

Various embodiments of the invention described herein feature aprotective auto-injector case that addresses some of the shortcomings ofconventional devices. The auto-injector case can be portable, adaptable,and low-profile. The auto-injector case can also increase the time apatient can maintain their auto-injector device in an adverse climate,as compared to a device without the case. Furthermore, the auto-injectorcase can allow the patient to prioritize their needs and determine whichconfiguration of the protective case is best for them.

Proposed herein is a protective case adapted for both low and highaspect ratio auto-injectors. As depicted in FIG. 1, the aspect ratio iscalculated by dividing the width by the height. The width of the deviceis measured as the smallest straight-line length on the injectionsurface of the device that is in contact with a patient's skin duringinjection (parallel to the injection surface). The height is defined asthe largest straight-line length of the device away from the skin duringinjection (perpendicular to the injection surface). See the ranges forthe low and high aspect ratios in the parameter table shown in FIG. 133.

Embodiments of the case may include cases that can be rigid or flexiblein nature. The casing material may be metal, thermoplastic (TP),thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), fiber reinforced composite, ceramic, or acombination of materials to provide physical and/or thermal protectionfor the device. In various embodiments, the case is substantiallysymmetrical about a horizontal plane and may be uniform about a centralaxis. The case may be configured in such a means that it is adaptable toeveryday use items, and can be attached, whether molded or not, todifferent cases or objects to increase portability. In addition, certainembodiments may allow the user to carry a single device or multipledevices.

Certain rigid embodiments of the case may contain two vacuum sealedchambers forming an enclosure around the device, to provide thermalprotection. The protective case may consist of upper and lower portionsof equal or unequal proportions which when mated together form a sealedenclosure. The lower portion may include a double wall, forming a lowervacuum chamber in between, and a lower sidewall flange, where the lowervacuum chamber extends within at least a portion of the lower sidewallflange. The upper portion may include a double wall forming an uppervacuum chamber therebetween and an upper sidewall flange, where theupper vacuum chamber extends within at least a portion of the uppersidewall flange. When the lower portion and the upper portion are mated,the lower and upper sidewall flanges overlap to form a substantiallysealed thermally isolated interior cavity for receiving theauto-injector. The pressure in each of the vacuum chambers may be set toreduce the rate of heat transfer and outlined in the parameter tableshown in FIG. 133.

In one aspect, an embodiment of the protective case may provide a lowerrate of heat transfer between the internal chamber and the externalenvironment or vice versa. In addition to the sealed vacuum chamber, anembodiment may contain an additional passive means of reducing the rateof heat transferred to or from the device. The internal sealed chambermay contain an additional thermal barrier to improve the insulatingproperties. The additional thermal barrier may consist of a TP,thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), open or closed cell foam layer orcombinations of such, which may or may not be one complete piece butconsists of multiple pieces that may interlock when the two halves ofthe case are mated together forming a substantially sealed barrier. Theadditional thermal barrier may prevent direct contact with the disposeddevice and the internal cavity wall further limiting the rate of heattransfer. The TP, TPE, or open or closed cell foam pieces may be affixedto the housing through various means including adhesive, mechanicalmeans, or form molded to the housing. The additional insulating barriermay further consist of at least one of a lower insulating barrierdisposed about an interior perimeter of the lower sidewall flange and anupper insulating barrier disposed about an interior perimeter of theupper sidewall flange. In addition to the insulating barrier applied tothe internal cavity of the case, the internal surfaces of the vacuumchamber may be polished or coated with a reflective layer to reduce theheat transfer through radiation. The coating applied to both surfaces,or at minimum one surface, of the sealed vacuum chamber may act as areinforcement or aid in the structural integrity of the rigid case inaddition to providing a reflective barrier. Furthermore, the case mayhave an exterior layer or coating consisting of a metal, TP, TPE, fiberreinforced composite, ceramic, or open or closed cell foam or acombination of such materials to aid in thermally insulating the caseand disposed device.

The proposed embodiments of the rigid and elastic cases may provide ameans of securing the device in a stable manner to eliminate or reduceany motion of the device relative to the case due to external loading orvibration. The method of which the case may secure the device canprovide a means to aid in the placement of the device for orientation aswell as aid in the removal of the device. The method of which thebarrier on the internal chamber of the case may provide an insulatingmeans, it may further assist in securing and stabilizing the device. Theinsulation barrier may form a cavity that releasably receives portion ofthe device and can provide the user with accessibility to remove thedevice from the case. The case may include a lower stabilizing elementdisposed within the lower portion and/or an upper stabilizing elementdisposed within the upper portion to support the auto-injector disposedin the interior cavity. The stabilizing element can include a materialincluding a closed cell polymer foam, an open cell polymer foam, rubber,TP, TPE, and/or combinations thereof. The barrier material may be chosensuch that its properties aid in thermally isolating the device as wellas aid in damping induced vibrations. Furthermore, embodiments may beconfigured to protect more than one device as well as hold dissimilardevices if deemed necessary. The configuration of holding multipledevices is not limited to a horizontal or vertical layout of stacking,but instead allows for the best optimized method of storing the deviceswhile maintaining a relatively low-profile case.

The sidewall flanges of the upper and lower portions of the thermallyprotective case may overlap axially, radially, and/or circumferentiallyto provide an adequately sealed joint. The sealed enclosure may beformed by several different configurations of mates between the upperand lower portion, some of which may include a friction fit, a threadedconnection, etc. Embodiments which contain a threaded connection tofacilitate the joint between the two halves may provide threads oneither corresponding half such that the threads are concealed whenconnected. In some embodiments the thermal barrier affixed to the innerhousings may provide the bond between the two halves of the case.Additionally, when the lower portion and the upper portion are matedtogether, the interior of the enclosure may be thermally isolated aswell as substantially watertight. Embodiments of the rigid case mayprovide a watertight/water-resistant seal to protect the device fromexposure to water or other fluids. The watertight/water-resistantconnection between the upper and lower halves of the sealed enclosuremay be facilitated by means of a gasket of suitable material, or throughthe addition of a coating or separate material applied at the jointinterface.

An embodiment of the auto-injector case may consist of an ergonomicshape such that it fits easily into an individual's hand and thecontours of the case may provide adequate surface area for properhandling. Furthermore, the embodiment may contain an external coating orlayering applied to the case. The exterior layer or coating may consistof a metal, TP, TPE, fiber reinforced composite, ceramic, or open orclosed cell foam, or a combination of such materials. The externalcoating may provide the following functionalities; shock absorbing,textured to aid in handling or gripping of the case, contoured surfaceprofiles to aid in handling or gripping, thermal insulation for thedevice, degradation protection from environmental effects, andstructural support for the case integrity. The case can further includean external surface including an embossed surface, a ribbed surface, agrip, and/or combinations thereof. In certain embodiments the insulationbarrier may protrude radially from the case to provide a user interfacefor device removal. Furthermore, the coating or layering may provide ameans of applying a label to the external surface of the case.

Examples of the proposed case for an auto-injector include, but are notlimited to, embodiments that may provide a means of attachment toeveryday items such as keychains, lanyards, wrist straps, cell phones,bikes, etc. Additionally, certain embodiments may include the use of acombination of rigid and elastic cases to provide more accessibility orportability. The attachment mechanisms may include, but are not limitedto; a strap, a clip, a pin, a clamp, a mount, a tab forming an eyelet,an adhesive layer, and/or combinations thereof. The method of which theembodiment may provide or allow for a means of attachment between theprotective case with a user or object. In various embodiments theprotective case forms a second cavity for receiving a second device(e.g., a cell phone and/or a second auto-injector device). In someinstances, the second cavity circumscribes at least a portion of thedevice or auto-injector device.

In some embodiments the case may have an internal power source to allowcertain functionalities of the case while storing the device. The casemay provide audible instructions relating to the contained device forperforming an injection or the stored condition of the device.Additionally, the case may provide connectivity to everyday smartdevices for additional functionality. Certain embodiments may allow forthe user to monitor the temperature, and location of the case.Additionally, the connected case may allow the user to see if otherauto-injector devices are nearby. Additional embodiments may contactemergency responders or next of kin once the auto-injector device hasbeen removed from the case. The case may also provide a display and/orinterface for inspection of the case and internal conditions. The casemay also provide a means of detecting excessive vibrations or impactswhile storing the device. Furthermore, information about the case andcontained auto-injector device may be monitored remotely by themanufacturer.

In general, embodiments of the invention are of a protective case for anauto-injector device, for which the case may be rigid, elastic orcombination of the two. The method can include the following: (I) aprotective case forming a cavity that releasably receives at least aportion of the auto-injector device; (II) the protective case which maycontain a lower portion including a double wall forming a lower vacuumchamber therebetween and a lower sidewall flange, where the lower vacuumchamber extends within at least a portion of the lower sidewall flange;and a mating upper portion including a double wall forming an uppervacuum chamber therebetween and an upper sidewall flange, where theupper vacuum chamber extends within at least a portion of the uppersidewall flange; (III) mating the sidewall flanges on the lower andupper portions to form a substantially sealed thermally isolated and orwatertight/water-resistant interior cavity for the auto-injector; (IV)and providing a means of attachment for the case to common everydayobjects.

In general, in one aspect, embodiments of the invention feature aprotective case for enclosing a compact auto-injector used fordelivering a medicament dose. The protective case can include a lowerportion including a double wall forming a lower vacuum chambertherebetween and a lower sidewall flange, where the lower vacuum chamberextends within at least a portion of the lower sidewall flange; and amating upper portion including a double wall forming an upper vacuumchamber therebetween and an upper sidewall flange, where the uppervacuum chamber extends within at least a portion of the upper sidewallflange, such that when the lower portion and the upper portion aremated, the lower and upper sidewall flanges overlap to form asubstantially sealed thermally isolated interior cavity for receivingthe auto-injector.

In various embodiments, the case is substantially symmetrical about ahorizontal plane. The case can also be substantially uniform about acentral vertical axis. In some instances, the pressure in each of thelower vacuum chamber and the upper vacuum chamber is less than about 0.1torr. The lower portion and the upper portion can be disk shaped. Invarious configurations, the lower sidewall flange and the upper sidewallflange overlap axially, radially, and/or circumferentially.

In various embodiments, mating surfaces of the lower sidewall flange andthe upper sidewall flange form a threaded interface and/or are sized tomaintain a sliding interference fit. In some instances, the protectivecase also includes a lower insulating ring disposed about an interiorperimeter of the lower sidewall flange and/or an upper insulating ringdisposed about an interior perimeter of the upper sidewall flange. Theinsulating ring can include various materials including, for example, aclosed cell polymer foam, an open cell polymer foam, rubber, TP, TPE,and/or combinations thereof. In some instances, the protective case alsoincludes a lower stabilizing element disposed within the lower portionand/or an upper stabilizing element disposed within the upper portion tosupport the auto-injector when disposed in the interior cavity. Thestabilizing element can include various materials including, forexample, a closed cell polymer foam, an open cell polymer foam, rubber,TP, TPE, and/or combinations thereof. The protective case itself caninclude various materials including, for example a metal, a polymer, acomposite material, a ceramic, and/or combinations thereof.

In various embodiments, the protective case also includes an attachmentdevice to facilitate a user carrying the case. The attachment device caninclude an adjustable elastic strap, a non-elastic strap, a wrist strap,a wrist band, a clip, a tether, a necklace, a pin, a clamp, a mount, atab forming an eyelet, an adhesive layer, a hand grip surface, and/orcombinations thereof. In some instances, the protective case is furthercharacterized by an absence of active thermal control of the interiorcavity. In some configurations, when the lower portion and the upperportion are mated, the substantially sealed thermally isolated interiorcavity is at least one of substantially watertight and substantiallywater resistant. The protective case can also include an externalsurface that includes a coating, an embossed surface, a ribbed surface,a grip, and/or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the protectivecase includes a reflective coating disposed on an interior surface ofthe lower vacuum chamber and the upper vacuum chamber. The interiorcavity may be adapted to receive multiple auto-injectors.

In general, in another aspect, embodiments of the invention feature amethod of thermally isolating a compact auto-injector containing amedicament dose from ambient environmental temperatures. The method caninclude the steps of providing a protective case that includes (i) alower portion including a double wall forming a lower vacuum chambertherebetween and a lower sidewall flange, where the lower vacuum chamberextends within at least a portion of the lower sidewall flange, and (ii)a mating upper portion including a double wall forming an upper vacuumchamber therebetween and an upper sidewall flange, where the uppervacuum chamber extends within at least a portion of the upper sidewallflange; placing the auto-injector into an interior cavity portion formedby at least one of the lower portion and the upper portion; and matingthe lower and upper sidewall flanges in overlapping relation to form asubstantially sealed thermally isolated interior cavity for theauto-injector.

In various embodiments, the method can also include providing anattachment device to associate the protective case with a user. Theattachment device can include an adjustable elastic strap, a non-elasticstrap, a wrist strap, a wrist band, a clip, a tether, a necklace, a pin,a clamp, a mount, a tab forming an eyelet, an adhesive layer, a handgrip surface, and/or combinations thereof. In some cases, the method isfurther characterized by an absence of actively thermally controllingthe interior cavity.

In general, in another aspect, embodiments of the invention feature anapparatus for associating an auto-injector device with a user. Theapparatus can include a protective case forming a cavity for releasablyreceiving at least a portion of the auto-injector device, and anattachment device coupled to the protective case.

In various embodiments, the protective case forms a second cavity forreceiving a second device. The second device can include a cell phoneand/or a second auto-injector device. In some instances, the cavitycircumscribes at least a portion of the auto-injector device. Theattachment device can include an adjustable elastic strap, a non-elasticstrap, a wrist strap, a wrist band, a clip, a tether, a necklace, a pin,a clamp, a mount, a tab forming an eyelet, an adhesive layer, a handgrip surface, and/or combinations thereof.

In general, in another aspect, embodiments of the invention feature amethod for associating an auto-injector device with a user. The methodcan include the steps of providing a protective case forming a cavityfor releasably receiving at least a portion of the auto-injector device,and providing an attachment device adapted to be coupled to theprotective case.

In various embodiments, the protective case forms a second cavity forreceiving a second device. The second device can include a cell phoneand/or a second auto-injector device. In some instances, the cavitycircumscribes at least a portion of the auto-injector device. Theattachment device can include an adjustable elastic strap, a non-elasticstrap, a wrist strap, a wrist band, a clip, a tether, a necklace, a pin,a clamp, a mount, a tab forming an eyelet, an adhesive layer, a handgrip surface, and/or combinations thereof.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the drawings, like reference characters generally refer to the sameparts throughout the different views. Also, the drawings are notnecessarily to scale, emphasis instead generally being placed uponillustrating the principles of the invention. In the followingdescription, various embodiments of the present invention are describedwith reference to the following drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a depiction of existing low aspect ratio auto-injectors, aswell as an example high aspect ratio auto-injector, according to oneembodiment;

FIGS. 2-15 are schematic views of a vacuum sealed protective case withIoT (internet of things) functionality for a high aspect ratioauto-injector, according to example embodiments;

FIGS. 16-58 are schematic views of a vacuum sealed protective case forcarrying a single high aspect ratio auto-injector, according to exampleembodiments;

FIGS. 59-69 are schematic views of a vacuum sealed protective case forcarrying multiple high aspect ratio auto-injectors, according to exampleembodiments;

FIGS. 70-97 are schematic views of a vacuum sealed protective case forcarrying a low aspect ratio auto-injector, according to exampleembodiments;

FIGS. 98-126 are schematic views of a non-vacuum sealed protective casefor carrying a high aspect ratio auto-injector and for carrying a lowaspect ratio auto-injector, according to example embodiments;

FIGS. 127-132 are schematic views of a non-vacuum sealed protective casefor carrying a high aspect ratio auto-injector and for carrying a lowaspect ratio auto-injector, that can pair with another protective caseor be a stand-alone protective case, according to example embodiments;and

FIG. 133 is a table showing exemplary properties for protective cases.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION Exemplary Embodiment No. 1 (Vacuum SealedHigh-Aspect Ratio Protective Case)

The protective case (1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, 1E) can be constructed of a rigidmaterial of the following compositions: metal, TP, TPE, fiber reinforcedcomposite, ceramic, or a combination of these materials. The protectivecase is composed of an upper half (1A-400, 1B-100, 1C-100, 1D-100,1E-100) and a lower half (1A-300, 1B-200, 1C-200, 1D-200, 1E-200), thatwhen mated together form an enclosure (1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, 1E) that issubstantially sealed that can provide insulation to the enclosedauto-injector and may be watertight. The upper half (1A-400, 1B-100,1C-100, 1D-100, 1E-100) and the lower half (1A-300, 1B-200, 1C-200,1D-200, 1E-200) of the protective case can be composed of a rigid innerand outer wall (1A-305, 1A-404, 1B-103, 1B-202, 1C-103, 1C-104, 1C-203,1C-204, 1D-102, 1D-202, 1E-102, 1E-202) that form the sealed vacuumchamber (1A-301, 1A-401, 1B-101, 1B-201, 1C-101, 1C-201, 1D-101, 1D-201,1E-101, 1E-201). The two vacuum sealed halves insulate the disposedauto-injector to limit the heat transfer between the internal chamberand the outside environment. The sealed vacuum chambers are extended tothe furthest point (1A-307, 1A-406, 1B-105, 1B-204, 1C-106, 1C-206,1E-106, 1E-206) at the joints of the two halves to maximize theinsulating properties of the case and limit thermal bridging to theinterior of the device.

The connection between the upper half (1A-400, 1B-100, 1C-100, 1D-100,1E-100) and lower half (1A-300, 1B-200, 1C-200, 1D-200, 1E-200) may be athreaded connection (1A-302, 1A-402, 1B-102, 1B-503), a friction fit(1C-102, 1C-202, 1E-106, 1E-206), or any other variation (1D-302,1D-402) that may provide a sealed connection. The joint between the twohalves may provide a watertight connection and in certain embodimentsmay utilize a gasket (1B-300). Furthermore, thewatertight/water-resistant connection may be facilitated through theaddition of a coating or separate material applied at the jointinterface (1A-303, 1A-403). In certain embodiments the joint between theupper half (1A-400, 1B-100, 1C-100, 1D-100, 1E-100) and the lower half(1A-300, 1B-200, 1C-200, 1D-200, 1E-200) may be facilitated by thethermal barrier (1A-500, 1A-600, 1B-400, 1B-500, 1C-300, 1C-400, 1D-300,1D-400, 1E-300, 1E-400) affixed to the interior of the housing. Thethermal barrier may be affixed to the housing (1A-306, 1A-405, 1B-104,1B-203, 1C-105, 1C-205, 1D-103, 1D-203, 1E-103, 1E-203) throughadhesive, mechanical means, or form molded (1A-501, 1A-601, 1B-401,1B-501, 1C-301, 1C-401, 1D-301, 1D-401, 1E-301, 1E-401). The sealedconnection may be performed via a threaded connection on the insulationsleeve (1B-503) and a corresponding threaded connection on the inside ofthe top housing (1B-102), such that the threads are concealed once thehousings are mated together.

The case may provide additional thermal insulation through a thermalbarrier (1A-500, 1A-600, 1B-400, 1B-500, 1C-300, 1C-400, 1D-300, 1D-400,1E-300, 1E-400) to improve the insulating properties. The additionalthermal barrier (1A-500, 1A-600, 1B-400, 1B-500, 1C-300, 1C-400, 1D-300,1D-400, 1E-300, 1E-400) may consist of a TP, TPE, open or closed cellfoam layer or combinations of such, which may or may not be one completepiece but can include multiple pieces that may interlock (1A-503,1A-603, 1B-402, 1B-502, 1C-302, 1C-402, 1D-302, 1D-402, 1E-302, 1E-402)when the two halves of the case are mated together, forming asubstantially sealed barrier. In certain embodiments the deviceenclosure may be lined with an insulating sleeve (1A-500, 1A-600,1B-400, 1B-500, 1C-300, 1C-400, 1D-300, 1D-400, 1E-300, 1E-400) formedof one or two pieces, which interlock through stepped ledges orinterference fits (1A-503, 1A-603, 1B-402, 1B-502, 1C-302, 1C-402,1D-302, 1D-402, 1E-302, 1E-402). In certain embodiments the insulationbarriers form a well or cradle (1A-502, 1A-602, 1B-403, 1B-505, 1C-503,1D-303, 1D-403, 1E-303, 1E-403) for stabilizing the device and maydampen any relative motion between the device and the protective case(1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, 1E). Alternatively, the insulation barrier and thestabilizing cradle may be two separate components (1C-500). The materialselection for the insulation sleeve and cradle will be such that itminimizes the thermal conductivity and maximizes vibration damping.Additionally, the thermal barrier(s) may protrude from the joint betweenthe upper half (1A-400, 1B-100, 1C-100, 1D-100, 1E-100) and the lowerhalf (1A-300, 1B-200, 1C-200, 1D-200, 1E-200) and provide an interfacefor the user to separate the halves (1D-304, 1D-404). The insulationbarrier may also form a cavity that releasably receives (1B-504, 1E-304,1E-404) at least a portion of the auto-injector device and providesaccess for the user to remove the device from the case (1A-304).Furthermore, the insulation barrier or rigid upper or lower halves mayprovide a means of orientation for the device to be stored and as suchremoved.

Furthermore, certain embodiments may be configured to protect more thanone device (1E) as well as hold dissimilar devices if deemed necessary.The configuration of holding multiple devices is not limited to ahorizontal or vertical layout of stacking, but instead allows for thebest optimized method of storing the devices while maintaining arelatively low-profile case.

In certain embodiments to aid in the insulating properties of the case,the internal surfaces of the vacuum sealed chambers may be polished orlined with a reflective coating, or similar means to reduce the heattransfer by radiation (1A-308, 1A-407, 1B-107, 1B-206, 1C-108, 1C-208,1D-105, 1D-205, 1E-105, 1E-205). Additionally, some embodiments maycontain an exterior coating (1A-100, 1A-200, 1B-106, 1B-205, 1C-107,1C-207, 1D-104, 1D-204, 1E-104, 1E-204) or applied layer(s) ofdissimilar material or combination of the two, to increase theinsulating value of the exterior wall. Furthermore, the exterior coating(1A-100, 1A-200, 1B-106, 1B-205, 1C-107, 1C-207, 1D-104, 1D-204, 1E-104,1E-204) or applied layer of dissimilar material or a combination of thetwo, to the exterior may provide a texture or profile to the case toassist the user in handling (1A-101, 1A-201). This exterior coating orlayer(s) of dissimilar material or combination of such may perform thefollowing functionalities; improve the ergonomics of the case, aid inreducing the induced vibrations from external loading, contribute tocase aesthetics, provide structural support, provide labeling (1A-102),etc.

Furthermore, embodiments of the case may provide a power source (1A-701)to assist in monitoring the conditions of the case both internal andexternal, and providing connectivity of the case with other smartdevices. The case may provide the user with an interface (1A-700) formonitoring internal device cavity and external conditions to bettermaintain the enclosed device.

In addition to providing a means of monitoring and connecting the casewirelessly to external devices, the case can provide a means ofphysically attaching to other external objects (1A-104). Additionally,certain embodiments may include the use of a combination of rigid andelastic cases (3H) to provide improved accessibility or portability. Inone aspect the combination of the rigid and elastic cases may provide ameans to affix the case or combination of cases to such everyday itemslike a backpack, lanyard, bike, keys, etc. The attachment mechanism mayinclude a wrist strap, a wrist band, a clip, a tether, a necklace, apin, a clamp, a mount, a tab forming an eyelet, an adhesive layer, ahand grip surface, and/or combinations thereof.

Exemplary Embodiment No. 2 (Vacuum Sealed Low-Aspect Ratio ProtectiveCase)

The embodiments depicted in FIGS. 70-97 mimic the functionality ofexemplary embodiment No. 1 where: (I) the protective case can beconstructed of a rigid material of the following compositions metal, TP,TPE, fiber reinforced composite, ceramic, or combination of suchmaterials; (II) the protective case is composed of an upper half(2A-100, 2B-100) and a lower half (2A-200, 2B-200), that when matedtogether form an enclosure (2A, 2B) that is substantially sealed thatcan provide insulation to the enclosed auto-injector and may bewatertight/water-resistant; (III) the upper half (2A-100, 2B-100) andthe lower half (2A-200, 2B-200) of the protective case (2A, 2B) arecomposed of a rigid inner and outer wall (2A-103, 2A-104, 2A-203,2A-204, 2B-103, 2B-203) that form the sealed vacuum chamber (2A-101,2A-201, 2B-101, 2B-201); (IV) the sealed vacuum chambers are extended tothe furthest point at the joints of the two halves (2A-106, 2A-206,2B-105, 2B-206) to maximize the insulating properties of the case andlimit thermal bridging to the interior of the device. The case may becomposed of two sealed vacuum chambers (2A-101, 2A-201, 2B-101, 2B-201)of proportional or nonproportional size. In one embodiment, the vacuumsealed chamber is composed of two parts (2A-103, 2A-104, 2A-203, and2A-204).

The connection between the upper and lower halves may be a threadedconnection, a frictional interference fit (2A-102, 2A-202, 2B-102,2B-202), or any other variation that may provide a sealed connection.The joint between the two halves may provide awatertight/water-resistant connection and in certain embodiments mayutilize a gasket. Furthermore, the watertight/water-resistant connectionmay be facilitated through the addition of a coating or separatematerial applied at the joint interface. In certain embodiments thejoint between the upper half (2A-100, 2B-100) and the lower half(2A-200, 2B-200) may be facilitated by the thermal barrier (2A-300,2A-400, 2B-300, 2B-400) affixed to the interior of the housing. Thethermal barrier may be affixed to the housing (2A-105, 2A-205, 2B-104,2B-204) through an adhesive, mechanical means, or form molded (2A-301,2A-401, 2B-301, 2B-401). The sealed connection may be performed via athreaded connection on the insulation sleeve and a correspondingthreaded connection on the inner top housing, such that the threads areconcealed once the housings are mated together. Similarly, theconnection may be performed using a friction fit or interferenceconnection (2A-302, 2A-402, 2B-302, 2B-402).

The case may provide additional thermal insulation through a thermalbarrier to aid in the insulating properties (2A-300, 2A-400, 2B-300,2B-400). The additional thermal barrier may consist of a TP, TPE, openor closed cell foam layer or combinations of such, which may or may notbe one complete piece, but consists of multiple pieces that mayinterlock (2A-302, 2A-402, 2B-302, 2B-402) when the two halves of thecase are mated together, forming a substantially sealed barrier. Incertain embodiments the device enclosure may be lined with an insulatingsleeve (2A-300, 2A-400, 2B-300, 2B-400) formed of one or two pieces,that interlock through stepped ledges or interference fits (2A-302,2A-402, 2B-302, 2B-402). In certain embodiments the insulation barriersform a well or cradle (2A-303, 2A-403, 2B-303, 2B-403) for stabilizingthe device and dampen any relative motion between the device and theprotective case. Alternatively, the insulation barrier and thestabilizing cradle may be two separate components. The materialselection for the insulation sleeve and cradle will be such that itminimizes the thermal conductivity and maximizes the shock absorptionproperties. Additionally, the thermal barrier(s) may protrude from thejoint between the upper and lower halves and provide an interface forthe user to separate the halves. The insulation barrier may also form acavity that releasably receives at least a portion of the auto-injectordevice and provides access for the user to remove the device from thecase. Furthermore, the insulation barrier or rigid upper or lower halvesmay provide a means of orientation (2A-304, 2A-404) for the device to bestored and as such removed.

Furthermore, certain embodiments may be configured to protect more thanone device as well as hold dissimilar devices if deemed necessary. Theconfiguration of holding multiple devices is not limited to a horizontalor vertical layout of stacking. The configuration allows for the methodof storing multiple auto-injector devices while maintaining alow-profile case.

In certain embodiments to aid in the insulating properties of the case(2A, 2B), the internal surfaces of the vacuum sealed chambers (2A-101,2A-201, 2B-101, 2B-201) may be polished or lined with a reflectivecoating (2A-108, 2A-208, 2B-107, 2B-207), or similar means to reduce theheat transfer through radiation. Additionally, some embodiments maycontain an exterior coating or applied layer(s) of dissimilar materialor combination of the two, to increase the insulating value of theexterior wall (2A-107, 2A-207, 2B-106, 2B-206). Furthermore, theexterior coating or exterior layer of dissimilar material orcombinations of the two, to the exterior may provide a texture (2A-107,2A-207, 2B-106, 2B-206) or profile to the case to assist the user inhandling or gripping. This exterior coating or layer(s) of dissimilarmaterial or combination of such may perform the followingfunctionalities; increase the ergonomics of the case, aid in reducingthe induced vibrations from external loading, assisting in caseaesthetics, provide structural support, provide labeling, etc.

Furthermore, embodiments of the case may provide a power source toassist in monitoring the conditions of the internal device cavity andexternal environment and providing connectivity of the case with othersmart devices. The case may provide the user with an interface formonitoring internal device cavity and external conditions to bettermaintain the enclosed device.

In addition to providing a means of monitoring and connecting the casewirelessly to external devices the case can provide a means ofphysically attaching the case to other external objects. Additionally,certain embodiments may include the use of a combination of rigid andelastic cases to provide a more accessible or portable means (3H). Inone aspect the combination of the rigid and elastic cases may provide ameans to affix the case or combination of cases to such everyday itemslike a backpack, lanyard, bike, keys, etc. The attachment mechanism mayinclude a wrist strap, a wrist band, a clip, a tether, a necklace, apin, a clamp, a mount, a tab forming an eyelet, an adhesive layer, ahand grip surface, and/or combinations thereof.

Exemplary Embodiment No. 3 (Protective Cases that Enable IncreasedPortability of Auto-Injectors)

Embodiments of a protective case may not be required to possessthermally insulating properties (3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, 3E, 3F, 3G, 3H), butrather provide physical protection and a means of increased portabilityfor an auto-injector. The protective case may form a cavity (3A-100,3B-100, 3B-101, 3C-100, 3D-100, 3E-100, 3F-303, 3F-403, 3G-201, 3H-100)that releasably receives at least a portion of the auto-injector device.Embodiments shown in FIGS. 98-132 include but are not limited todifferent cases which may attach (3A-102, 3B-103, 3C-101, 3C-103,3D-101, 3D-103, 3E-104, 3E-105, 3E-106, 3G-102, 3H-103) to everydayobjects and allow for the auto-injector to be in close proximity to theuser wherever they are. The protective cases may provide a manner ofprotection by damping any incurred forces or vibrations through materialselections. Embodiments of a non-vacuum sealed case may be constructedof a metal, TP, TPE, fiber reinforced composite, ceramic, orcombinations of similar materials. Certain embodiments may also providea watertight/water-resistant or water-repellant enclosure (3F-101,3F-201) around the device and may facilitate thiswatertight/water-resistant seal by means of a gasket or through theaddition of a coating or separate material applied at the jointinterface.

Certain embodiments of a protective case may provide a means ofattaching the case to common everyday objects or similarly otherprotective cases (3A-102, 3B-103, 3C-101, 3C-103, 3D-101, 3D-103,3E-104, 3E-105, 3E-106, 3G-102, 3H-103). The attachment mechanisms mayinclude but are not limited to; a strap (3E-106), a clip, a pin, aclamp, a mount (3H-103), a tab forming an eyelet (3A-102, 3B-103,3G-102), an adhesive layer (3A-103, 3G-103), and/or combinationsthereof. One embodiment for the case may contain an eyelet (3A-102,3B-103, 3G-102) or similar geometry to provide a means of fastening thecase to another object. The eyelet (3A-102, 3B-103, 3G-102) or similarfeature may be formed through a molded, adhered, or formed feature onthe protective case. Alternatively, the case may provide a molded orformed strap (3E-106) or a similar feature. The strap (3E-106) mayprovide a means of adjustment to accommodate a desired circumference.This may be accomplished by of adjustment holes (3E-104), the adjustmentholes may be fixed by means of a buckle (3E-105) or similar manner tofasten the case. In addition, the protective case for the auto-injectormay have an adhesive (3A-103, 3G-103) applied to one surface forfixating the case to another object. Furthermore, one embodiment of theprotective case for containing an auto-injector may allow for theintegration of a cell phone, or similar electronic device, for betteradaptation and meshing with the user's daily routine (ex: 3C-101,3C-103, 3D-101, 3D-103) Further embodiments may be adapted to store oneor more devices (3B-101, 3D-100). The case may hold a single device ormultiple devices whether similar form or not. The configuration ofholding multiple devices is not limited to a horizontal or verticallayout, but the best optimized method of storing the devices whilemaintaining as low a profile case as possible.

Embodiments of the protective case may contain a housing which receivesthe auto-injector (3A-100, 3B-100, 3B-101, 3C-100, 3D-100, 3E-100,3F-303, 3F-403, 3G-201, 3H-100) and may stabilize the auto-injector bymeans of a feature molded or formed into the housing (ex: a ridge, lip,etc.) (3A-101, 3B-102, 3C-102, 3D-102, 3E-101, 3G-101, 3H-100). Theridge maintains constant communication between the device and thehousing at all times until removed for use. Furthermore, the geometry ofthe housing may be such that once the device is disposed within, thehousing is placed under a state of stress and as such maintains constantcommunication with the device (3C-104). The housing may or may notenclose all sides of the auto-injector (3A-106, 3B-106, 3C-106, 3D-104,3E-102, 3F-303, 3F-403, 3G-201, 3H-100) whilst providing a means toeasily and rapidly remove in times of need (3G-106). In addition, theridge, lip, etc. (3H-104). of the housing ensures that any externalvibrations will not allow the auto-injector to become separated from thehousing (3A-100, 3B-100, 3B-101, 3C-100, 3D-100, 3E-100, 3F-303, 3F-403,3G-201, 3H-100). One embodiment (3G) may contain multiple materials toprovide a layering effect to protect and conceal the device. In certainembodiments the housing may provide a means of orienting the deviceduring storage using molded or formed shoulders or other similarfeatures. In certain embodiments the housing may also be adjustable toaccommodate different sized auto-injectors (3H).

Certain embodiments may provide a textured or contoured exterior surface(3A-105, 3B-105, 3C-105, 3D-105, 3E-103, 3F-104, 3F-204, 3G-202, 3G-105)by means of a coating or applying additional materials, or moldedfeatures, or a combination of such. In some embodiments the externalcoating or textured surface may be accomplished by layering materials(3G). The exterior surface texture or contours may aid in increasing theergonomics or handling of the case, or likewise in assisting the user inremoving the auto-injector (3G-106). Furthermore, this exterior coatingor layer(s) of dissimilar material or combination of such may performthe following functionalities; increase the ergonomics of the case, aidin reducing the induced vibrations from external loading, assisting incase aesthetics, provide structural support, provide labeling (3G-302),etc.

Furthermore, these cases may provide a means to be able to accommodatethe auto-injector alone or incorporate other protective cases incombination as well (vacuum sealed or not) (3H-100, 3H-101, 3H-104,3H-105). Embodiments of certain protective cases may present themselveswith a feature to allow for the mounting and joining to other cases.Adjustments for securing various sized auto-injectors and cases may beaccomplished through, but not limited to, clips, straps (3E-106), moldedfeatures (33-106, 3H-103), or other suitable means which can securelyfasten one to the other.

Additional, embodiments of the case may provide a way of moving theauto-injector relative to the point of fixation (3H-103). This relativemovement may be facilitated by but not limited to a ball joint andreceiver (3H-102). The ability to move the auto-injector relative to thefixation point may allow the user better access, and improved ergonomicsfor handling and accessibility.

Certain embodiments of the case may provide a power source to assist inmonitoring the conditions of the case both internal and external as wellas the connectivity of the case with other smart devices. The case mayprovide the user with an interface for monitoring internal and externalconditions to better maintain the enclosed device.

The table below provides names and brief descriptions of the referencesnumerals appearing in the figures:

REFERENCE NUMERAL NAME DESCRIPTION 1A VACUUM CASE (W/EXTERNAL GRIPCOMPLETE PART SURFACE) 1A-100 TOP GRIP SURFACE COMPLETE PART 1A-101 TOPGRIP SURFACE USER INTERFACE (FINGER SCALLOPS) 1A-102 TOP GRIP SURFACELABEL (EMBOSSED WRITING) 1A-103 TOP GRIP SURFACE SEALING EDGE 1A-104 TOPGRIP SURFACE EXTERNAL ATTACHMENT MECHANISM 1A-200 BOTTOM GRIP SURFACECOMPLETE PART 1A-201 BOTTOM GRIP SURFACE USER INTERFACE (FINGERSCALLOPS) 1A-202 BOTTOM GRIP SURFACE IOT INTERFACE AND POWER SOURCEHOUSING/CAVITY 1A-203 BOTTOM GRIP SURFACE SEALING EDGE 1A-300 BOTTOMHALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE COMPLETE PART 1A-301 BOTTOM HALF OFENCLOSURE/CASE SEALED VACUUM CHAMBER 1A-302 BOTTOM HALF OFENCLOSURE/CASE THREADED CONNECTION 1A-303 BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASEWATER-RESISTANT COATING ON SEALING INTERFACE 1A-304 BOTTOM HALF OFENCLOSURE/CASE SCALLOPS FOR DEVICE REMOVAL 1A-305 BOTTOM HALF OFENCLOSURE/CASE RIGID HOUSING FOR FORMING THE VACUUM CHAMBER 1A-306BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE INTERFACE BETWEEN INSULATION BARRIER ANDBOTTOM HOUSING 1A-307 BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE SEALING EDGE 1A-308BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE POLISHED SURFACE OR REFLECTIVE COATEDSURFACE INSIDE VACUUM CHAMBER 1A-400 TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE COMPLETEPART 1A-401 TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE SEALED VACUUM CHAMBER 1A-402 TOPHALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE THREADED CONNECTION 1A-403 TOP HALF OFENCLOSURE/CASE WATER-RESISTANT COATING ON SEALING INTERFACE 1A-404 TOPHALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE RIGID HOUSING FOR FORMING THE VACUUM CHAMBER1A-405 TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE INTERFACE BETWEEN INSULATION BARRIERAND TOP HOUSING 1A-406 TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE SEALING EDGE 1A-407TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE POLISHED SURFACE OR REFLECTIVE COATED SURFACEINSIDE VACUUM CHAMBER 1A-500 TOP INSULATION BARRIER COMPLETE PART 1A-501TOP INSULATION BARRIER INTERFACE BETWEEN INSULATION BARRIER AND TOPHOUSING 1A-502 TOP INSULATION BARRIER STABILIZING SHOULDER FOR FIXINGDEVICE 1A-503 TOP INSULATION BARRIER SEALING INTERFACE WITHCOORESPONDING INSULATION BARRIER 1A-600 BOTTOM INSULATION BARRIERCOMPLETE PART 1A-601 BOTTOM INSULATION BARRIER INTERFACE BETWEENINSULATION BARRIER AND BOTTOM HOUSING 1A-602 BOTTOM INSULATION BARRIERSTABILIZING SHOULDER FOR FIXING DEVICE 1A-603 BOTTOM INSULATION BARRIERSEALING INTERFACE WITH COORESPONDING INSULATION BARRIER 1A-700ELECTRONIC DISPLAY & POWER DISPLAY SCREEN AND USER SOURCE INTERFACE1A-701 ELECTRONIC DISPLAY & POWER POWER SOURCE SOURCE 1B VACUUM CASE(WITH GASKET & COMPLETE PART THREADS ON INSULATION BARRIER) 1B-100 TOPHALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE COMPLETE PART 1B-101 TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASESEALED VACUUM CHAMBER 1B-102 TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE THREADEDCONNECTION 1B-103 TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE RIGID HOUSING FOR FORMINGTHE VACUUM CHAMBER 1B-104 TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE INTERFACE BETWEENINSULATION BARRIER AND TOP HOUSING 1B-105 TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASESEALING EDGE 1B-106 TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE EXTERIOR TEXTURED ORCOATED SURFACE 1B-107 TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE POLISHED SURFACE ORREFLECTIVE COATED SURFACE INSIDE VACUUM CHAMBER 1B-200 BOTTOM HALF OFENCLOSURE/CASE COMPLETE PART 1B-201 BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE SEALEDVACUUM CHAMBER 1B-202 BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE RIGID HOUSING FORFORMING THE VACUUM CHAMBER 1B-203 BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASEINTERFACE BETWEEN INSULATION BARRIER AND BOTTOM HOUSING 1B-204 BOTTOMHALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE SEALING EDGE 1B-205 BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASEEXTERIOR TEXTURED OR COATED SURFACE 1B-206 BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASEPOLISHED SURFACE OR REFLECTIVE COATED SURFACE INSIDE VACUUM CHAMBER1B-300 GASKET FOR WATERTIGHT/WATER- COMPLETE PART RESISTANT SEAL 1B-400TOP INSULATION BARRIER COMPLETE PART 1B-401 TOP INSULATION BARRIERINTERFACE BETWEEN INSULATION BARRIER AND TOP HOUSING 1B-402 TOPINSULATION BARRIER SEALING INTERFACE WITH COORESPONDING INSULATIONBARRIER 1B-403 TOP INSULATION BARRIER DEVICE CONTACT SURFACE 1B-500BOTTOM INSULATION BARRIER COMPLETE PART 1B-501 BOTTOM INSULATION BARRIERINTERFACE BETWEEN INSULATION BARRIER AND BOTTOM HOUSING 1B-502 BOTTOMINSULATION BARRIER SEALING INTERFACE WITH COORESPONDING INSULATIONBARRIER 1B-503 BOTTOM INSULATION BARRIER THREADED CONNECTION 1B-504BOTTOM INSULATION BARRIER SCALLOPS FOR DEVICE REMOVAL 1B-505 BOTTOMINSULATION BARRIER DEVICE CONTACT SURFACE 1C VACUUM CASE (W/SEPARATECOMPLETE PART DAMPING COMPONENT FOR DEVICE CRADLE) 1C-100 TOP HALF OFENCLOSURE/CASE COMPLETE PART 1C-101 TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE SEALEDVACUUM CHAMBER 1C-102 TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE FRICTION/INTERFERENCECONNECTION FOR BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE 1C-103 TOP HALF OFENCLOSURE/CASE RIGID HOUSING #1 FOR FORMING THE VACUUM CHAMBER 1C-104TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE RIGID HOUSING #2 FOR FORMING THE VACUUMCHAMBER 1C-105 TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE INTERFACE BETWEEN INSULATIONBARRIER/STABILIZER AND TOP HOUSING 1C-106 TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASESEALING EDGE 1C-107 TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE EXTERIOR TEXTURED ORCOATED SURFACE 1C-108 TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE POLISHED SURFACE ORREFLECTIVE COATED SURFACE INSIDE VACUUM CHAMBER 1C-200 BOTTOM HALF OFENCLOSURE/CASE COMPLETE PART 1C-201 BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE SEALEDVACUUM CHAMBER 1C-202 BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASEFRICTION/INTERFERENCE CONNECTION FOR TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE 1C-203BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE RIGID HOUSING #1 FOR FORMING THE VACUUMCHAMBER 1C-204 BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE RIGID HOUSING #2 FORFORMING THE VACUUM CHAMBER 1C-205 BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASEINTERFACE BETWEEN INSULATION BARRIER/STABILIZER AND BOTTOM HOUSING1C-206 BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE SEALING EDGE 1C-207 BOTTOM HALF OFENCLOSURE/CASE EXTERIOR TEXTURED OR COATED SURFACE 1C-208 BOTTOM HALF OFENCLOSURE/CASE POLISHED SURFACE OR REFLECTIVE COATED SURFACE INSIDEVACUUM CHAMBER 1C-300 TOP INSULATION BARRIER COMPLETE PART 1C-301 TOPINSULATION BARRIER INTERFACE BETWEEN INSULATION BARRIER AND TOP HOUSING1C-302 TOP INSULATION BARRIER SEALING INTERFACE WITH COORESPONDINGINSULATION BARRIER 1C-400 BOTTOM INSULATION BARRIER COMPLETE PART 1C-401BOTTOM INSULATION BARRIER INTERFACE BETWEEN INSULATION BARRIER ANDBOTTOM HOUSING 1C-402 BOTTOM INSULATION BARRIER SEALING INTERFACE WITHCOORESPONDING INSULATION BARRIER 1C-500 STABILIZATION/SHOCK ABSORBINGCOMPLETE PART COMPONENT 1C-501 STABILIZATION/SHOCK ABSORBING INTERFACEWITH INSULATION COMPONENT BARRIER 1C-502 STABILIZATION/SHOCK ABSORBINGINTERFACE WITH SURFACE OF COMPONENT UPPER/LOWER HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE1C-503 STABILIZATION/SHOCK ABSORBING DEVICE CRADDLE COMPONENT 1D VACUUMCASE (INSULATION BARRIER COMPLETE PART PROVIDES USER WITH INTERFACE)1D-100 TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE COMPLETE PART 1D-101 TOP HALF OFENCLOSURE/CASE SEALED VACUUM CHAMBER 1D-102 TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASERIGID HOUSING FOR FORMING THE VACUUM CHAMBER 1D-103 TOP HALF OFENCLOSURE/CASE INTERFACE BETWEEN INSULATION BARRIER AND TOP HOUSING1D-104 TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE EXTERIOR TEXTURED OR COATED SURFACE1D-105 TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE POLISHED SURFACE OR REFLECTIVE COATEDSURFACE INSIDE VACUUM CHAMBER 1D-200 BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASECOMPLETE PART 1D-201 BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE SEALED VACUUM CHAMBER1D-202 BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE RIGID HOUSING FOR FORMING THEVACUUM CHAMBER 1D-203 BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE INTERFACE BETWEENINSULATION BARRIER AND BOTTOM HOUSING 1D-204 BOTTOM HALF OFENCLOSURE/CASE EXTERIOR TEXTURED OR COATED SURFACE 1D-205 BOTTOM HALF OFENCLOSURE/CASE POLISHED SURFACE OR REFLECTIVE COATED SURFACE INSIDEVACUUM CHAMBER 1D-300 TOP INSULATION BARRIER COMPLETE PART 1D-301 TOPINSULATION BARRIER INTERFACE BETWEEN INSULATION BARRIER AND TOP HOUSING1D-302 TOP INSULATION BARRIER SEALING INTERFACE WITH COORESPONDINGINSULATION BARRIER 1D-303 TOP INSULATION BARRIER AUTO-INJECTOR CONTACTSURFACE 1D-304 TOP INSULATION BARRIER EXTERIOR USER INTERFACE 1D-400BOTTOM INSULATION BARRIER COMPLETE PART 1D-401 BOTTOM INSULATION BARRIERINTERFACE BETWEEN INSULATION BARRIER AND BOTTOM HOUSING 1D-402 BOTTOMINSULATION BARRIER SEALING INTERFACE WITH COORESPONDING INSULATIONBARRIER 1D-403 BOTTOM INSULATION BARRIER AUTO-INJECTOR CONTACT SURFACE1D-404 BOTTOM INSULATION BARRIER EXTERIOR USER INTERFACE 1E VACUUM CASE(FOR HOLDING COMPLETE PART MULTIPLE AUTO-INJECTORS) IE-100 TOP HALF OFENCLOSURE/CASE COMPLETE PART IE-101 TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE SEALEDVACUUM CHAMBER IE-102 TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE RIGID HOUSING FORFORMING THE VACUUM CHAMBER IE-103 TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE INTERFACEBETWEEN INSULATION BARRIER AND TOP HOUSING IE-104 TOP HALF OFENCLOSURE/CASE EXTERIOR TEXTURED OR COATED SURFACE IE-105 TOP HALF OFENCLOSURE/CASE POLISHED SURFACE OR REFLECTIVE COATED SURFACE INSIDEVACUUM CHAMBER IE-106 TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE FRICTION/INTERFERENCECONNECTION FOR BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE IE-200 BOTTOM HALF OFENCLOSURE/CASE COMPLETE PART IE-201 BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE SEALEDVACUUM CHAMBER IE-202 BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE RIGID HOUSING FORFORMING THE VACUUM CHAMBER IE-203 BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASEINTERFACE BETWEEN INSULATION BARRIER AND BOTTOM HOUSING IE-204 BOTTOMHALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE EXTERIOR TEXTURED OR COATED SURFACE IE-205 BOTTOMHALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE POLISHED SURFACE OR REFLECTIVE COATED SURFACEINSIDE VACUUM CHAMBER IE-206 BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASEFRICTION/INTERFERENCE CONNECTION FOR BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASEIE-300 TOP INSULATION BARRIER COMPLETE PART IE-301 TOP INSULATIONBARRIER INTERFACE BETWEEN INSULATION BARRIER AND TOP HOUSING IE-302 TOPINSULATION BARRIER SEALING INTERFACE WITH COORESPONDING INSULATIONBARRIER IE-303 TOP INSULATION BARRIER AUTO-INJECTOR CONTACT SURFACEIE-304 TOP INSULATION BARRIER SCALLOPS FOR DEVICE REMOVAL IE-400 BOTTOMINSULATION BARRIER COMPLETE PART IE-401 BOTTOM INSULATION BARRIERINTERFACE BETWEEN INSULATION BARRIER AND BOTTOM HOUSING IE-402 BOTTOMINSULATION BARRIER SEALING INTERFACE WITH COORESPONDING INSULATIONBARRIER IE-403 BOTTOM INSULATION BARRIER AUTO-INJECTOR CONTACT SURFACEIE-404 BOTTOM INSULATION BARRIER SCALLOPS FOR DEVICE REMOVAL 2A VACUUMCASE (AUTO-INJECTORS W/ COMPLETE PART PEN FORM FACTOR) 2A-100 TOP HALFOF ENCLOSURE/CASE COMPLETE PART 2A-101 TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE SEALEDVACUUM CHAMBER 2A-102 TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE FRICTION/INTERFERENCECONNECTION FOR BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE 2A-103 TOP HALF OFENCLOSURE/CASE RIGID HOUSING #1 FOR FORMING THE VACUUM CHAMBER 2A-104TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE RIGID HOUSING #2 FOR FORMING THE VACUUMCHAMBER 2A-105 TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE INTERFACE BETWEEN INSULATIONBARRIER AND TOP HOUSING 2A-106 TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE SEALING EDGE2A-107 TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE EXTERIOR TEXTURED OR COATED SURFACE2A-108 TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE POLISHED SURFACE OR REFLECTIVE COATEDSURFACE INSIDE VACUUM CHAMBER 2A-200 BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASECOMPLETE PART 2A-201 BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE SEALED VACUUM CHAMBER2A-202 BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE FRICTION/INTERFERENCE CONNECTIONFOR BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE 2A-203 BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASERIGID HOUSING #1 FOR FORMING THE VACUUM CHAMBER 2A-204 BOTTOM HALF OFENCLOSURE/CASE RIGID HOUSING #2 FOR FORMING THE VACUUM CHAMBER 2A-205BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE INTERFACE BETWEEN INSULATION BARRIER ANDBOTTOM HOUSING 2A-206 BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE SEALING EDGE 2A-207BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE EXTERIOR TEXTURED OR COATED SURFACE 2A-208BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE POLISHED SURFACE OR REFLECTIVE COATEDSURFACE INSIDE VACUUM CHAMBER 2A-300 TOP INSULATION BARRIER COMPLETEPART 2A-301 TOP INSULATION BARRIER INTERFACE BETWEEN INSULATION BARRIERAND TOP HOUSING 2A-302 TOP INSULATION BARRIER SEALING INTERFACE WITHCOORESPONDING INSULATION BARRIER 2A-303 TOP INSULATION BARRIERAUTO-INJECTOR CONTACT SURFACE 2A-304 TOP INSULATION BARRIERAUTO-INJECTOR ORIENTATION CUT- OUT 2A-400 BOTTOM INSULATION BARRIERCOMPLETE PART 2A-401 BOTTOM INSULATION BARRIER INTERFACE BETWEENINSULATION BARRIER AND BOTTOM HOUSING 2A-402 BOTTOM INSULATION BARRIERSEALING INTERFACE WITH COORESPONDING INSULATION BARRIER 2A-403 BOTTOMINSULATION BARRIER AUTO-INJECTOR CONTACT SURFACE 2A-404 BOTTOMINSULATION BARRIER AUTO-INJECTOR ORIENTATION CUT- OUT 2B VACUUM CASE(AUTO-INJECTORS W/ COMPLETE PART RECTANGULAR FORM FACTOR) 2B-100 TOPHALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE COMPLETE PART 2B-101 TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASESEALED VACUUM CHAMBER 2B-102 TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASEFRICTION/INTERFERENCE CONNECTION FOR BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE2B-103 TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE RIGID HOUSING FOR FORMING THE VACUUMCHAMBER 2B-104 TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE INTERFACE BETWEEN INSULATIONBARRIER AND BOTTOM HOUSING 2B-105 TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE SEALINGEDGE 2B-106 TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE EXTERIOR TEXTURED OR COATEDSURFACE 2B-107 TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE POLISHED SURFACE OR REFLECTIVECOATED SURFACE INSIDE VACUUM CHAMBER 2B-200 BOTTOM HALF OFENCLOSURE/CASE COMPLETE PART 2B-201 BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE SEALEDVACUUM CHAMBER 2B-202 BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASEFRICTION/INTERFERENCE CONNECTION FOR BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE2B-203 BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE RIGID HOUSING FOR FORMING THEVACUUM CHAMBER 2B-204 BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE INTERFACE BETWEENINSULATION BARRIER AND BOTTOM HOUSING 2B-205 BOTTOM HALF OFENCLOSURE/CASE SEALING EDGE 2B-206 BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASEEXTERIOR TEXTURED OR COATED SURFACE 2B-207 BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASEPOLISHED SURFACE OR REFLECTIVE COATED SURFACE INSIDE VACUUM CHAMBER2B-300 TOP INSULATION BARRIER COMPLETE PART 2B-301 TOP INSULATIONBARRIER INTERFACE BETWEEN INSULATION BARRIER AND TOP HOUSING 2B-302 TOPINSULATION BARRIER SEALING INTERFACE WITH COORESPONDING INSULATIONBARRIER 2B-303 TOP INSULATION BARRIER AUTO-INJECTOR CONTACT SURFACE2B-400 BOTTOM INSULATION BARRIER COMPLETE PART 2B-401 BOTTOM INSULATIONBARRIER INTERFACE BETWEEN INSULATION BARRIER AND BOTTOM HOUSING 2B-402BOTTOM INSULATION BARRIER SEALING INTERFACE WITH COORESPONDINGINSULATION BARRIER 2B-403 BOTTOM INSULATION BARRIER AUTO-INJECTORCONTACT SURFACE 3A TP/TPE CASE (FOR HOLDING 1 AUTO- COMPLETE PARTINJECTOR WITH ATTACHMENT MEANS) 3A-100 TP/TPE CASE (FOR HOLDING 1 AUTO-HOUSING INJECTOR WITH ATTACHMENT MEANS) 3A-101 TP/TPE CASE (FOR HOLDING1 AUTO- LIP OR RESTRICTING FEATURE FOR INJECTOR WITH ATTACHMENT MEANS)SECURING AUTO-INJECTOR 3A-102 TP/TPE CASE (FOR HOLDING 1 AUTO- EXTERNALATTACHMENT INJECTOR WITH ATTACHMENT MEANS) MECHANISM 3A-103 TP/TPE CASE(FOR HOLDING 1 AUTO- BOTTOM SURFACE FOR ADDITION INJECTOR WITHATTACHMENT MEANS) FIXATING (EX: ADHESIVE) 3A-104 TP/TPE CASE (FORHOLDING 1 AUTO- PERIMETER WALL INJECTOR WITH ATTACHMENT MEANS) 3A-105TP/TPE CASE (FOR HOLDING 1 AUTO- EXTERNAL SURFACE FOR INJECTOR WITHATTACHMENT MEANS) LABELING/EMBOSING/TEXTURING/ COATING 3A-106 TP/TPECASE (FOR HOLDING 1 AUTO- AUTO-INJECTOR CONTACT SURFACE INJECTOR WITHATTACHMENT MEANS) 3B TP/TPE CASE (FOR HOLDING MULTIPLE COMPLETE PARTAUTO-INJECTORS WITH ATTACHMENT MEANS) 3B-100 TP/TPE CASE (FOR HOLDINGMULTIPLE HOUSING #1 AUTO-INJECTORS WITH ATTACHMENT MEANS) 3B-101 TP/TPECASE (FOR HOLDING MULTIPLE HOUSING #2 AUTO-INJECTORS WITH ATTACHMENTMEANS) 3B-102 TP/TPE CASE (FOR HOLDING MULTIPLE LIP OR RESTRICTINGFEATURE FOR AUTO-INJECTORS WITH ATTACHMENT SECURING AUTO-INJECTOR MEANS)3B-103 TP/TPE CASE (FOR HOLDING MULTIPLE EXTERNAL ATTACHMENTAUTO-INJECTORS WITH ATTACHMENT MECHANISM MEANS) 3B-104 TP/TPE CASE (FORHOLDING MULTIPLE PERIMETER WALL AUTO-INJECTORS WITH ATTACHMENT MEANS)3B-105 TP/TPE CASE (FOR HOLDING MULTIPLE EXTERNAL SURFACE FORAUTO-INJECTORS WITH ATTACHMENT LABELING/EMBOSING/TEXTURING/ MEANS)COATING 3B-106 TP/TPE CASE (FOR HOLDING MULTIPLE AUTO-INJECTOR CONTACTSURFACE AUTO-INJECTORS WITH ATTACHMENT MEANS) 3C TP/TPE CASE (FORHOLDING 1 AUTO- COMPLETE PART INJECTOR ADAPTED FOR ATTACHMENT ON ASECONDARY DEVICE EX: CELL PHONE) 3C-100 TP/TPE CASE (FOR HOLDING 1 AUTO-HOUSING FOR AUTO-INJECTOR INJECTOR ADAPTED FOR ATTACHMENT ON A CELLPHONE) 3C-101 TP/TPE CASE (FOR HOLDING 1 AUTO- HOUSING FOR SECONDARYDEVICE INJECTOR ADAPTED FOR ATTACHMENT (EX: CELL PHONE) ON A CELL PHONE)3C-102 TP/TPE CASE (FOR HOLDING 1 AUTO- RESTRAINING FEATURE FOR THEINJECTOR ADAPTED FOR ATTACHMENT AUTO-INJECTOR ON A CELL PHONE) 3C-103TP/TPE CASE (FOR HOLDING 1 AUTO- RESTRAINING FEATURE FOR THE INJECTORADAPTED FOR ATTACHMENT SECONDARY DEVICE ON A CELL PHONE) 3C-104 TP/TPECASE (FOR HOLDING 1 AUTO- CONTACT/BRACING SURFACE FOR INJECTOR ADAPTEDFOR ATTACHMENT THE AUTO-INJECTOR ON A CELL PHONE) 3C-105 TP/TPE CASE(FOR HOLDING 1 AUTO- EXTERNAL SURFACE FOR INJECTOR ADAPTED FORATTACHMENT LABELING/EMBOSING/TEXTURING/ ON A CELL PHONE) COATING 3C-106TP/TPE CASE (FOR HOLDING 1 AUTO- HOUSING FOR LOW ASPECT RATION INJECTORADAPTED FOR ATTACHMENT AUTO-INJECTOR ON A CELL PHONE) 3D TP/TPE CASE(FOR HOLDING MULTIPLE COMPLETE PART AUTO-INJECTORS WITH ATTACHMENTMEANS) 3D-100 TP/TPE CASE (FOR HOLDING MULTIPLE HOUSING FORAUTO-INJECTOR AUTO-INJECTORS WITH ATTACHMENT MEANS) 3D-101 TP/TPE CASE(FOR HOLDING MULTIPLE HOUSING FOR SECONDARY DEVICE AUTO-INJECTORS WITHATTACHMENT (EX: CELL PHONE) MEANS) 3D-102 TP/TPE CASE (FOR HOLDINGMULTIPLE RESTRAINING FEATURE FOR THE AUTO-INJECTORS WITH ATTACHMENTAUTO-INJECTOR MEANS) 3D-103 TP/TPE CASE (FOR HOLDING MULTIPLERESTRAINING FEATURE FOR THE AUTO-INJECTORS WITH ATTACHMENT SECONDARYDEVICE MEANS) 3D-104 TP/TPE CASE (FOR HOLDING MULTIPLE CONTACT/BRACINGSURFACE FOR AUTO-INJECTORS WITH ATTACHMENT THE AUTO-INJECTOR MEANS)3D-105 TP/TPE CASE (FOR HOLDING MULTIPLE EXTERNAL SURFACE FORAUTO-INJECTORS WITH ATTACHMENT LABELING/EMBOSING/TEXTURING/ MEANS)COATING 3E TP/TPE ADJUSTABLE STRAP CASE COMPLETE PART 3E-100 TP/TPEADJUSTABLE STRAP CASE HOUSING FOR AUTO-INJECTOR 3E-101 TP/TPE ADJUSTABLESTRAP CASE RESTRAINING FEATURE FOR THE AUTO-INJECTOR 3E-102 TP/TPEADJUSTABLE STRAP CASE CONTACT/BRACING SURFACE FOR THE AUTO-INJECTOR3E-103 TP/TPE ADJUSTABLE STRAP CASE EXTERNAL SURFACE FORLABELING/EMBOSING/TEXTURING/ COATING 3E-104 TP/TPE ADJUSTABLE STRAP CASEADJUSTABLE HOLES 3E-105 TP/TPE ADJUSTABLE STRAP CASE FASTENING MECHANISM(EX: BUCKEL) 3E-106 TP/TPE ADJUSTABLE STRAP CASE ATTACHMENST STRAPS FORSECURING CASE 3F RIGID NON-VACUUM CASE WITH LINER COMPLETE PART 3F-100TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE FRICTION/INTERFERENCE/THREADED CONNECTION FORBOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE 3F-101 TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE UPPERRIGID HOUSING FOR FORMING THE CASE/ENCLOSURE 3F-102 TOP HALF OFENCLOSURE/CASE INTERFACE BETWEEN LINER/BARRIER AND UPPER HOUSING 3F-103TOP HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE SEALING EDGE 3F-104 TOP HALF OFENCLOSURE/CASE EXTERIOR TEXTURED OR COATED SURFACE 3F-200 BOTTOM HALF OFENCLOSURE/CASE FRICTION/INTERFERENCE/THREADED CONNECTION FOR BOTTOM HALFOF ENCLOSURE/CASE 3F-201 BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE LOWER RIGIDHOUSING FOR FORMING THE CASE/ENCLOSURE 3F-202 BOTTOM HALF OFENCLOSURE/CASE INTERFACE BETWEEN LINER/BARRIER AND BOTTOM HOUSING 3F-203BOTTOM HALF OF ENCLOSURE/CASE SEALING EDGE 3F-204 BOTTOM HALF OFENCLOSURE/CASE EXTERIOR TEXTURED OR COATED SURFACE 3F-300 UPPERLINER/BARRIER COMPLETE PART 3F-301 UPPER LINER/BARRIER INTERFACE BETWEENLINER/BARRIER AND TOP HOUSING 3F-302 UPPER LINER/BARRIER SEALINGINTERFACE WITH COORESPONDING LINER/BARRIER 3F-303 UPPER LINER/BARRIERAUTO-INJECTOR CONTACT SURFACE 3F-304 UPPER LINER/BARRIER AUTO-INJECTORORIENTATION CUT- OUT 3F-400 LOWER LINER/BARRIER COMPLETE PART 3F-401LOWER LINER/BARRIER INTERFACE BETWEEN LINER/BARRIER AND BOTTOM HOUSING3F-402 LOWER LINER/BARRIER SEALING INTERFACE WITH COORESPONDINGINSULATION BARRIER 3F-403 LOWER LINER/BARRIER AUTO-INJECTOR CONTACTSURFACE 3F-404 LOWER LINER/BARRIER AUTO-INJECTOR ORIENTATION CUT- OUT 3GTP/TPE CASE (FOR HOLDING 1 OR COMPLETE PART MORE AUTO-INJECTORS WITHLINER) 3G-100 TP/TPE CASE (FOR HOLDING 1 OR EXTERNAL HOUSING MOREAUTO-INJECTORS WITH LINER) 3G-101 TP/TPE CASE (FOR HOLDING 1 ORRESTRICTING FEATURE FOR MORE AUTO-INJECTORS WITH LINER) SECURINGAUTO-INJECTOR AND INNER LINER 3G-102 TP/TPE CASE (FOR HOLDING 1 OREXTERNAL ATTACHMENT MORE AUTO-INJECTORS WITH LINER) MECHANISM 3G-103TP/TPE CASE (FOR HOLDING 1 OR BOTTOM SURFACE FOR ADDITION MOREAUTO-INJECTORS WITH LINER) FIXATING (EX: ADHESIVE) 3G-104 TP/TPE CASE(FOR HOLDING 1 OR PERIMETER WALL MORE AUTO-INJECTORS WITH LINER) 3G-105TP/TPE CASE (FOR HOLDING 1 OR EXTERNAL SURFACE FOR MORE AUTO-INJECTORSWITH LINER) LABELING/EMBOSING/TEXTURING/ COATING 3G-106 TP/TPE CASE (FORHOLDING 1 OR FEATURE FOR AUTO-INJECTOR EASE MORE AUTO-INJECTORS WITHLINER) OF REMOVAL 3G-107 TP/TPE CASE (FOR HOLDING 1 OR CUT-OUT(S) FORLINER MORE AUTO-INJECTORS WITH LINER) LABEL/EMBOSS/FEATURE 3G-200 TP/TPECASE (FOR HOLDING 1 OR COMPLETE PART MORE AUTO-INJECTORS WITH LINER)3G-201 TP/TPE CASE (FOR HOLDING 1 OR HOUSING FOR AUTO-INJECTOR MOREAUTO-INJECTORS WITH LINER) 3G-202 TP/TPE CASE (FOR HOLDING 1 OR SURFACEFOR MORE AUTO-INJECTORS WITH LINER) LABELING/EMBOSING/TEXTURING/ COATING3G-203 TP/TPE CASE (FOR HOLDING 1 OR INTERFACE SURFACE WITH MOREAUTO-INJECTORS WITH LINER) EXTERNAL SURFACE 3H ADJUSTABLE PROTECTIVECASE COMPLETE PART 3H-100 ADJUSTABLE PROTECTIVE CASE ADJUSTABLE FEATUREFOR HOLDING AUTO-INJECTOR OR ADDITIONAL PROTECTIVE CASE 3H-101ADJUSTABLE PROTECTIVE CASE RESTRICTING/SECURING FEATURE 3H-102ADJUSTABLE PROTECTIVE CASE AUTO-INJECTOR POSITION ADJUSTMENT FEATURE(EX: BALL JOINT) 3H-103 ADJUSTABLE PROTECTIVE CASE EXTERNAL MOUNTINGFEATURE 3H-104 ADJUSTABLE PROTECTIVE CASE INTERFACE BETWEEN AUTO-INJECTOR/CASE AND SECURING/RESTRICTING FEATURE 3H-105 ADJUSTABLEPROTECTIVE CASE SUPPORT FEATURE FOR HOLDING AUTO-INJECTOR

Each numerical value presented herein is contemplated to represent aminimum value or a maximum value in a range for a correspondingparameter. Accordingly, when added to the claims, the numerical valueprovides express support for claiming the range, which may lie above orbelow the numerical value, in accordance with the teachings herein.Every value between the minimum value and the maximum value within eachnumerical range presented herein (including in the charts shown in thefigures), is contemplated and expressly supported herein, subject to thenumber of significant digits expressed in each particular range. Absentexpress inclusion in the claims, each numerical value presented hereinis not to be considered limiting in any regard.

Unless expressly described elsewhere in this application, as usedherein, when the term “substantially” or “about” is before aquantitative value, the present disclosure also includes the specificquantitative value itself, as well as, in various cases, a ±1%, ±2%,±5%, and/or ±10% variation from the nominal value unless otherwiseindicated or inferred.

Having described certain embodiments of the invention, it will beapparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that other embodimentsincorporating the concepts disclosed herein may be used withoutdeparting from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, thedescribed embodiments are to be considered in all respects as onlyillustrative and not restrictive. The terms and expressions employedherein are used as terms and expressions of description and not oflimitation and there is no intention, in the use of such terms andexpressions, of excluding any equivalents of the features shown anddescribed or portions thereof. The structural features and functions ofthe various embodiments may be arranged in various combinations andpermutations, and all are considered to be within the scope of thedisclosed invention. Unless otherwise necessitated, recited steps in thevarious methods may be performed in any order and certain steps may beperformed substantially simultaneously.

What is claimed is:
 1. A protective case for enclosing a compactauto-injector used for delivering a medicament dose, the protective casecomprising: a lower portion comprising a double wall forming a lowervacuum chamber therebetween and a lower sidewall flange, wherein thelower vacuum chamber extends within at least a portion of the lowersidewall flange; and a mating upper portion comprising a double wallforming an upper vacuum chamber therebetween and an upper sidewallflange, wherein the upper vacuum chamber extends within at least aportion of the upper sidewall flange; such that when the lower portionand the upper portion are mated, the lower and upper sidewall flangesoverlap to form a substantially sealed thermally isolated interiorcavity for receiving the auto-injector.
 2. The protective case of claim1, wherein the case is substantially symmetrical about a horizontalplane.
 3. The protective case of claim 1, wherein the case issubstantially uniform about a central vertical axis.
 4. The protectivecase of claim 1, wherein a pressure in each of the lower vacuum chamberand the upper vacuum chamber is less than about 0.1 torr.
 5. Theprotective case of claim 1, wherein the lower portion and the upperportion are disk-shaped.
 6. The protective case of claim 1, wherein thelower sidewall flange and the upper sidewall flange overlap at least oneof axially, radially, and circumferentially.
 7. The protective case ofclaim 1, wherein the lower sidewall flange and the upper sidewall flangeoverlap axially, radially, and circumferentially.
 8. The protective caseof claim 1, wherein mating surfaces of the lower sidewall flange and theupper sidewall flange at least one of (i) form a threaded interface and(ii) are sized to maintain a sliding interference fit.
 9. The protectivecase of claim 1, further comprising at least one of a lower insulatingring disposed about an interior perimeter of the lower sidewall flangeand an upper insulating ring disposed about an interior perimeter of theupper sidewall flange.
 10. The protective case of claim 9, wherein theinsulating ring comprises a material selected from the group consistingof a closed cell polymer foam, an open cell polymer foam, rubber, TP,TPE, and combinations thereof.
 11. The protective case of claim 1,further comprising at least one of a lower stabilizing element disposedwithin the lower portion and an upper stabilizing element disposedwithin the upper portion to support the auto-injector when disposed inthe interior cavity.
 12. The protective case of claim 11, wherein thestabilizing element comprises a material selected from the groupconsisting of a closed cell polymer foam, an open cell polymer foam,rubber, TP, TPE, and combinations thereof.
 13. The protective case ofclaim 1, wherein the protective case comprises a material selected fromthe group consisting of metal, polymer, a composite material, a ceramic,and combinations thereof.
 14. The protective case of claim 1, furthercomprising an attachment device to facilitate a user carrying the case.15. The protective case of claim 14, wherein the attachment devicecomprises an element selected from the group consisting of an adjustableelastic strap, a non-elastic strap, a wrist strap, a wrist band, a clip,a tether, a necklace, a pin, a clamp, a mount, a tab forming an eyelet,an adhesive layer, a hand grip surface, and combinations thereof. 16.The protective case of claim 1, further characterized by an absence ofactive thermal control of the interior cavity.
 17. The protective caseof claim 1, wherein, when the lower portion and the upper portion aremated, the substantially sealed thermally isolated interior cavity is atleast one of substantially watertight and substantially water resistant.18. The protective case of claim 1, further comprising an externalsurface selected from the group consisting of a coating, an embossedsurface, a ribbed surface, a grip, and combinations thereof.
 19. Theprotective case of claim 1, further comprising a reflective coatingdisposed on an interior surface of the lower vacuum chamber and theupper vacuum chamber.
 20. The protective case of claim 1, wherein theinterior cavity is adapted to receive multiple autoinjectors.
 21. Amethod of thermally isolating a compact auto-injector containing amedicament dose from ambient environmental temperatures, the methodcomprising the steps of: providing a protective case comprising: a lowerportion comprising a double wall forming a lower vacuum chambertherebetween and a lower sidewall flange, wherein the lower vacuumchamber extends within at least a portion of the lower sidewall flange;and a mating upper portion comprising a double wall forming an uppervacuum chamber therebetween and an upper sidewall flange, wherein theupper vacuum chamber extends within at least a portion of the uppersidewall flange; placing the auto-injector into an interior cavityportion formed by at least one of the lower portion and the upperportion; and mating the lower and upper sidewall flanges in overlappingrelation to form a substantially sealed thermally isolated interiorcavity for the auto-injector.
 22. The method of claim 21, furthercomprising the step of providing an attachment device to associate theprotective case with a user.
 23. The method of claim 22, wherein theattachment device comprises an element selected from the groupconsisting of an adjustable elastic strap, a non-elastic strap, a wriststrap, a wrist band, a clip, a tether, a necklace, a pin, a clamp, amount, a tab forming an eyelet, an adhesive layer, a hand grip surface,and combinations thereof.
 24. The method of claim 21, furthercharacterized by an absence of actively thermally controlling theinterior cavity.
 25. An apparatus for associating an auto-injectordevice with a user, the apparatus comprising: a protective case forminga cavity for releasably receiving at least a portion of theauto-injector device; and an attachment device coupled to the protectivecase.
 26. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein the protective case forms asecond cavity for receiving a second device.
 27. The apparatus of claim26, wherein the second device is selected from the group consisting of acell phone and a second auto-injector device.
 28. The apparatus of claim25, wherein the cavity circumscribes at least a portion of theauto-injector device.
 29. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein theattachment device comprises an element selected from the groupconsisting of an adjustable elastic strap, a non-elastic strap, a wriststrap, a wrist band, a clip, a tether, a necklace, a pin, a clamp, amount, a tab forming an eyelet, an adhesive layer, a hand grip surface,and combinations thereof.
 30. A method for associating an auto-injectordevice with a user, the method comprising the steps of: providing aprotective case forming a cavity for releasably receiving at least aportion of the auto-injector device; and providing an attachment deviceadapted to be coupled to the protective case. 31.-34. (canceled)